Paying Children To Do Odd Jobs. Dbs Check?

[barry1010]

A 14 year old boy in one of my local FB groups is trying to earn money doing odd jobs - good for him, I have a few jobs he could do.
I don't know this boy or his family. Would I have to be DBS checked? I know I would if I was working with children (paid and voluntary)/

[Ken4155]

You may be over-thinking things, Barry. Just a young lad earning a few quid.

[barry1010]

I've just reemembered I asked the same question a couple of years ago. I decided then to only employ adults but this is a slightly different scenario

[Maydup]

You can’t officially employ a 14 yr old to do odd jobs, having a DBS check makes no difference to the appropriateness.

Ask his parent to come with him and give the kid a few bob, but don’t expect too much or for it to be anything other than you giving him some pocket money.

[chelle7272]

Children can work at 14 but may need permission from the local authority. It may be preferable to have an informal arrangement with the parent
https://www.gov.uk/child-employment/restrictions-on-child-employment

[barry1010]

That's odd, Maydup, because in England you can pay a 14 year old to babysit.

[pat2604]

Personally, I would stear clear or take Maydups advice. Times have changed from when Bob a job was acceptable.

[furrypusscat]

I appreciate this is different but if you remember the Scout & Guide Associations 'bob a job' week where money was given for odd jobs done by them for their groups as a way of earning some funds, this was stopped due to possible paedophile offences being committed. I do not know if it was ever re-instated.
As suggested one of his parents ought to be asked to be present while he carries out the small jobs. It is a shame that we all have to be aware of todays society.

[woofgang]

I looked into this a few years ago. My concern was about insurance and liability while the youngsters were working on my premises. Decided against it in the end.

[barry1010]

Thanks all, I've decided against it, too.
I remember when the DBS (CRB) came in for all those working with children in 2002, I think - we lost a lot of volunteers. 16 year old volunteers had to have a CRB if they were working with under 18s.

[Maydup]

I have a DBS check for a volunteering roll I do but unless knew the family well, I wouldn’t have the lad doing odd jobs on his own. Shame though.

[aelmpvw]

personally i would employ a professional chimney sweep

[William51]

I would ask him for his parents phone number, ask them if it would be alright before going ahead with the job.